Bryant Sanford Strong

"Bryant Sanford Strong was a beacon of light and love in the lives of all who knew him-born in Kalamazoo, Michigan, to Lisa A. White and Chester L. Strong. Bryant's journey began with promise and joy. From his earliest days, his vibrant personality was undeniable, lighting up the lives of those around him, and from a child to adulthood, he would often be heard singing praises to God from the bathroom wherever he was.
He was beloved by all of his cousins and those on Clarence Street held a special bond, who were more like his siblings in every sense but blood. His endearing and selfless love he shared for his grandmother Shirley A. White, was evident in the way he was committed to her daily care.
Bryant's life was a tapestry of rich experiences and deep connections. He grew up in Kalamazoo, where his many talents and magnetic personality made him a well-known and cherished member of the community. He was a faithful member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church where he was said to have brought light anytime he came around.
Bryant had a gift for making people feel loved and valued, whether through his exceptional cooking, his soulful singing, his artistic hair styling, or simply by his presence. He pursued a career attending Empire Beauty School but gained most of his skills by being self-taught.
He wore his faith on his sleeve, always quick to credit the Grace of God for his abilities and accomplishments. His smile was infectious, and his signature departing phrase, "See Ya!" will echo in the hearts of those who loved him forever. Bryant's love for his sisters Sylvia and Simone was boundless, inspiring him to become a hairstylist to help his mom when she wasn't able to. To many, he was the embodiment of a best friend - the first and the truest.
Bryant found great fulfillment in his work with Loaves & Fishes, serving others and enriching the community that he held so dear. His resilience and strength were awe-inspiring, passing his CDL on the first try in July of 2023 after recovering from a near-death incident just a month prior. He was in the process of building his hair business, "Pure Culture" Then & Now, with dreams that stretched far beyond the horizon.
Bryant was preceded in death by his father, Chester Lionel Strong; his uncle, Rodney Strong Sr.; and his grandfather, Elisha White. His memory will forever be cherished by his parents, Lisa and (his Special dad since the age of 3) Joseph Albeo; his sisters, Sylvia, Simone, and Monica Albeo; his brother, Jose' Wilson; his grandmother, Shirley A. White; his aunts and uncles, including his special Aunt Shirley Ann "NeNe"( Darnell) Tabor, Carol Strong-Larry, Uncles Steven (Deonia) White, Minister Louis White, Lawrence White, and Leonard Strong; his cousins, who were more like siblings, including Benjamin White, Christopher (Elika) White, Cheryl (Darren) Moore, Bradford (Destyni) Tabor, Jacob, and Victoria Tabor, and his cousins & first friends, Michael and Matthew Williams, Austin Harris, Sheridan Harris and Latoya (Terry) Walker. His honorary grandmother, Betty Walker, His Great Aunt, Sondra H. Barnes, and her daughter Sondra Louise both shared a special bond and are among the women who were both loved and cherished by Bryant and whose hearts will also feel the void of his absence.
Bryant's legacy will also live on through a host of family and friends who adored him, including his best friends Yolanda "Yogi" Crawford, Stephanie Rayborn, Tajia Perez, and his Goddaughter Miasia Jackson
Bryant's life was a testament to the power of love, kindness, and resilience. As we say "See Ya!" one last time, we do so knowing that his spirit will forever guide and inspire us.
Bryant Sanford Strong (Bry Bry), you were a light in this world, and your brightness will never fade from our hearts."